Zinc deficiency can lead to infections in the body, impaired bowel function, anemia and autoimmune diseases. Zinc is therefore a supplement that is essential for the body and must be taken from outside. It is also a type of mineral found in many foods. The most common symptoms of zinc deficiency include hair loss, diarrhea, colds and infections. It is a condition that can be treated with adequate intake of supplements and nutrients.
If the mineral, which cannot be produced by the body, is not taken in the required amount with food, some symptoms, diseases and disorders may occur in the person. It is found in many foods such as red meat, oats, nuts and dried fruits. With these foods, the daily need is usually met. However, in some cases, supplements may also be needed.
What is Zinc Deficiency?
The daily zinc requirement of a healthy person is approximately 15 to 20 mg. This amount may vary during pregnancy and breastfeeding, illness, growth and development, and gender.
It can be seen in cases where the individual is ill, has an unhealthy and unbalanced diet or the mineral cannot be stored in the body for any reason. Symptoms and complaints can occur quickly. Therefore, this condition is among the common health problems.
Mineral has many functions in the body. These include; supporting the immune system, contributing to the healing of wounds and physical trauma, and fulfilling the function of sensory functions such as smell and taste.
It also contributes to sexual function, protects reproductive functions, strengthens nails and hair follicles, and contributes to the development of children during growth periods.
In cases of deficiency, the mineral that cannot fulfill its function in the body can lead to the emergence of many problems. For this reason, nutrients and supplements may be needed to obtain the required mineral level. In case of deficiency, it manifests itself with many symptoms.
What are the Symptoms of Zinc Deficiency?
The signs and symptoms that occur in cases where zinc levels are deficient may differ from person to person. When it cannot fulfill its function in the body, the health of the person may deteriorate and cause some changes in the body.
Common zinc deficiency symptoms can be listed as follows:
- Deterioration in nail health, brittle nail structure and slow growth
- Hair loss
- Stomach problems and diarrhea
- Skin loss around the mouth and on different parts of the body
- Delayed healing of wounds
- Skin problems and wounds on different parts of the skin
- Rapid weight loss
- Problems and decreases in the senses of taste and smell
- Concentration problems
- Tendency to sleep
- Slowdown in growth and development
- Sexual dysfunction and infertility
In addition, in some cases there may not be any symptoms. Especially in the early days, the conditions caused by the deficiency may not be recognized. However, this situation is noticed if the severity and number of symptoms increase in the following periods. In case of symptoms and complaints, you should consult a doctor and have the necessary controls done.
What Causes Zinc Deficiency?
Among the causes of deficiency, the most known and encountered factor is nutritional problems. Red meat, white meat, shellfish, eggs, oats, cereals, nuts are among the foods that contain the mineral. Failure to take the required amounts of such foods causes deficiency.
In addition, in order for minerals to be taken in adequate amounts and stored in the body, protein needs must also be met. For this reason, not consuming the protein the body needs in the required amounts can cause this situation. This can also be seen in people who adopt vegan and vegetarian eating habits.
In addition to these, the factors that cause zinc deficiency are as follows:
- Cancer types
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Diabetes
- Celiac disease
- Iron mineral supplements
- Intestinal diseases (Crohn's and ulcerative)
How is Zinc Deficiency Diagnosed?
Zinc deficiency can be diagnosed by a doctor's examination and some questions in case of symptoms and complaints. The physical examination performed by the doctor is important in determining the deficiency.
During the examination, the structure of the hair, nails and skin is examined and evaluated. In addition, some questions about the senses of taste and smell or infectious diseases may be asked.
The person's dietary habits, diseases and medications are learned. If there is a suspicion that a mineral is deficient, tests are carried out to determine the deficiency and the mineral level.
Some tests can be performed on a blood test or hair sample. The levels found as a result of the tests are evaluated depending on age.
Generally, it is stated as 50 to 120 mg/dL in infants younger than 1 month, 55 to 140 mg/dL up to 15 years of age, and 70 to 155 mg/dL after 15 years of age.
In the test for hair, it is between 95-285. If the values are below these values, it is determined that there is a deficiency. If the deficiency is detected, the treatment process is planned.
How is Zinc Deficiency Treatment?
Zinc deficiency treatment is performed depending on the factors that cause this condition. In the deficiency that occurs due to any diet program or in nutrition-related situations, the person is recommended to take mineral supplements.
While the intervals and dosage of these supplements should be taken by the doctor, it may vary depending on the person's age, gender, diseases, pregnancy periods or breastfeeding periods.
In addition, the doctor may also refer the person to dieticians to determine the foods from which the necessary vitamins and minerals should be taken. A nutrition program suitable for the person can be prepared and changes in eating habits can be made.
It is important to take the necessary supplements during pregnancy, breastfeeding or premature birth. Following the doctor's recommendations for such situations is important for both the health of the person and the development of the baby.
In addition, in cases of mineral deficiency due to certain diseases, in addition to the treatment of the current disease, people should follow the doctor's recommendations. These supplements are vitamins and minerals that should be used on the advice of a doctor. The person should not use them unconsciously on their own.